I usually don't check the Epaulet site but happened to go on there this weekend. I'm really bummed I missed these in my size. I love the brass eyelets and natural edge/welt on this make up.Warning: Spoiler!(Click to show)

Originally Posted by shoetree
Does anyone have a recomendation for a horsehair brush? I was looking for a new one and I see the allen edmonds brush is $10 and the alden brush is $38. Is there a big difference in quality among different brands?

I've purchased brushes from them several times and find them to be a great value in the larger sizes. Made in the USA to boot. The 'executive' model has the contoured finger grip along the sides which I do like. One word: one of the light-colored brushes I own does shed a bit but no issues with the dark ones. YMMV. Allen Edmonds which was mentioned has worked out for me in the past as well. Having handled but not purchased an Alden shine brush I can say I see no difference (beyond branding) to the basic AE or these brushes, and nothing to justify the price multiple.

That should have read Barrie 7.5D, but I assume the advice still applies, just with 8.0 grant and 7.5 trubalance. Thanks for the advice.

I am 7.5 D Barrie as well and do a 7.5 D on the Trubalance. The Barrie fits me very well, perfectly in some models, but the TB is a bit roomy. If the Barrie fits you well and you don't mind wearing thicker socks, I'd stay with the same size on TB. No experience on Grant, sorry.

I
I've not used the Alden brush, but I have two of the Allen Edmonds brushes and they work great.

Quote:

Originally Posted by epc2

I own and use the AE brushes, at first I had some issues like others here , looks like AE left some product residue (maybe polish) on a particular batch and they were causing a strange hazing on my shells,I washed them a few times with dishsoap( read that tip here) and after that they've been working perfect.

Quote:

Originally Posted by RevisIsland

I spent like $30 on some large made in germany brushes.....but I pretty much exclusively use a small old Kiwi brush. I prefer the stiffer kiwi brush vs the softer made in germany brushes.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bobbo316

Look at some of the brushes from The Hanger Project, got numerous brushes,polishes..etc. from there and everything has been superb quality.

I have and with great success my local AE rep would give them to me for free Usually they would lose adhesion after a year or so. I never worried about having to remove them as they would just come off on their own.

Hmm. Thanks for all the sizing input so far. I'm planning on kopping an all black boot. I started off looking at the W+H x Viberg boot (http://shop.wingsandhorns.com/collections/all/products/wings-horns-x-viberg-service-boot) but at that price point, I started contemplating picking up a pair of Alden 4065's (Black Shell Cap Toe, all eyelets, stacked leather sole). However, they're out of my size. The other option is the AF60 (Black Shell Cap Toe, speed hooks + eyelets, commando sole). I considered the Leffot Naval Boot, since the broguing is technically less formal, but that ship has sailed.

I'd mostly be wearing them casual, probably with fits that are mostly shades of black/white/grey/navy. I already have boots for a more workwear look. Any suggestions? I'm leaning towards the shell because of the ease of care and longevity of the leather, but am open to all opinions. Thanks in advance.

I have and with great success my local AE rep would give them to me for free Usually they would lose adhesion after a year or so. I never worried about having to remove them as they would just come off on their own.

I never had mine on that long. I put them on for a bit to try out but didn't like them. They were a $%^#* to remove.